12/10/2025
Malarial Parasite Test (Peripheral Blood Smear Examination)
1. Objective:
The objective of the malarial parasite test was to detect the presence of Plasmodium species in the blood and help in diagnosing malaria infection.
2. Principle:
The test was based on microscopic examination of stained thick and thin blood films. Thick smears concentrated the parasites for easy detection, while thin smears helped identify the Plasmodium species based on morphology. Giemsa or Leishman stains were used to visualize parasites within red blood cells.
3. Materials:
• Patient’s blood sample (finger prick or EDTA blood)
• Clean glass slides and cover slips
• Lancet
• Methanol (for fixation of thin smear)
• Giemsa or Leishman stain
• Distilled water
• Microscope
• Immersion oil
4. Procedure (Microscopic):
1. A drop of blood was collected by finger prick.
2. Two smears were prepared:
o Thick smear: Spread a large drop in a circular area to concentrate parasites.
o Thin smear: Spread a small drop into a thin film with a feathered edge.
3. The thin smear was air-dried and fixed with methanol; the thick smear was left unfixed.
4. Both smears were stained with diluted Giemsa stain for about 10 minutes.
5. The slides were washed gently, air-dried, and examined under a microscope using oil immersion.
6. The presence and species of Plasmodium were identified based on parasite morphology.
5. Result:
• Positive: Malarial parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, or P. ovale were seen in red blood cells.
• Negative: No malarial parasite was seen in the examined fields.
• Parasite density could be estimated in thick films.
6. Uses:
• To confirm malaria infection
• To identify the specific Plasmodium species
• To estimate parasite density and monitor treatment response
• To differentiate malaria from other febrile illnesses
7. Consultation:
Patients with a positive result were advised to consult a physician for antimalarial treatment. In severe cases, hospitalization was reco